Before his tragically early demise in 1963, Clark was mainly known for his ensemble work and especially for small-group sets he led, such as Cool Struttin' and Sonny's Crib (the latter with a line-up similar to Blue Train, recorded a fortnight later). His three Blue Note trios were at one level less ambitious, focusing on standards and (especially when the modest Landers was on hand) intended for jukebox singles rather than cutting-edge albums. And yet his always striving, Powell-derived improvisation is highly rhythmic and more compelling than you might expect. The bonus set done for the Time label is less well recorded and with an inferior piano, but consists of original tunes (some previously done on earlier group sessions) that show how he might have developed. (Incidentally, a track called ‘Sonny's Crib’ on the latter album is not the same tune as on the famous Blue Note sextet date.) It may be that Clark's soloing ultimately was most effective within larger groups, but this is a timely reminder that, while not an innovator, he had a personal and persuasive style on his instrument.